Denmark Confers Knighthood on Veterinary Professor Hans P. Riemann

Professor emeritus Hans P. Riemann, a pioneer in the field of preventive veterinary medicine, has been knighted by the Danish government. On behalf of Queen Margrethe II, Consul General Martin Kofod presented Riemann with the badge of the Order of the Dannebrog, a white- and red-enamelled cross, at a campus ceremony Monday, October 18.

In Denmark, a constitutional monarchy, Queen Margrethe II confers the honor of knighthood to recognize meritorious service and contributions to science, art, business or other areas of Danish life.

Kofod stated that Danish knighthood is a rare honor, and his congratulatory remarks included mention of Riemann's ongoing and generous exchanges with Danish students, professors and scientific organizations.

Danish colleagues brought Riemann's accomplishments to the government's attention by citing life-long dedication to the veterinary medical profession, particularly in the areas of food animal health and food safety research.

Bennie I. Osburn, dean, stated of Riemann, "His work has directly contributed to the control and prevention of livestock and food-borne disease -- areas vitally important to both human and animal health." Riemann, a native of Denmark, has been a guiding force in food safety. He is founding editor of the journal, Veterinary Epidemiology, and the author of more than 200 scientific publications, including co-authorship of the first textbook in the field, Epidemiology in Veterinary Practice.

Born and educated in Denmark, Riemann began teaching at UC Davis in 1965. He has served as chair of the Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine and as director of the Master of Preventive Veterinary Medicine program. Still active in retirement, Riemann is currently collaborating on Salmonella-related investigations designed to improve animal health on poultry farms.